According to the kinetic molecular theory, which best describes the path of a gas particle between collisions with other particles?

• A. A zigzag pattern due to attraction forces
• B. A straight line
• C. A circular orbit
• D. A curved trajectory

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the kinetic molecular theory, which models gas particles as small, hard spheres in constant, random motion.
2. Understand that gas particles move freely and rapidly until they collide with another particle or the container walls.
3. Note that between collisions, there are no forces acting on the gas particles (assuming ideal gas behavior), so they move in straight lines.
4. Recognize that the path is not curved or circular because there are no continuous forces causing acceleration or curved motion between collisions.
5. Conclude that the best description of the path of a gas particle between collisions is a straight line.